Monks' mantras upset locals

by Leah Hallett, Gold Coast, Dec 10, 2007

Brisbane, Australia -- BUDDHIST monks seeking nirvana in the Gold Coast Hinterland have been accused of disturbing the peace of their neighbours.

Monks from the Hwazan Buddhist Association have been warned they can only pursue enlightenment on their own property between 7am and 7pm after being told their late night chanting on their Clagiraba property was disturbing their neighbours.

Their application to council to build a buddhist meditation centre at 131-139 Clagiraba Road earlier this year sparked the issue.

Since then neighbours have complained the monks' amplified mantras are more painful than peaceful.

In a letter to council, one resident likened the monks' broadcast chanting to 'annoying airport announcements'.

"It felt as if we were at Heathrow airport," wrote the neighbour.

"Each time they made an announcement it was exactly like being at the airport -- sound effects and all.